Original Articles

Original articles represent the communication of medical research to the community. We encourage submission of original articles containing basic laboratory science, clinical and/or epidemiologic science, or other types of research such as social psychology. Original articles must follow a specific format. Each required component should begin on a new and numbered page, in the following sequence:

• Title page
• Abstract and key words
• Text (each starting on a separate page)
  • Introduction
  • Methods
  • Results
  • Discussion
• Acknowledgments
• References
• Tables, illustrations and image details
  • Each complete with title, table footnotes and illustration legends on a separate page
  • If the illustrations or images are in electronic format in another file, list the name of the relevant files here

Abstract and Keywords

The abstract must be no longer than 200 words and should contain the following: the aim of the study, basic procedures, main findings, and the principal conclusions. The abstract must be self-contained. Underneath the abstract please provide and identify 3 to 10 key words, and where possible use Medical Subject Headings (MeSH).

Text

The text for original articles should not exceed 2300 words and should be divided into its appropriate components (outlined above). Footnotes should be kept to a minimum and should be indicated in the text as lowercase superscript letters.

Introduction

The introduction should state clearly the purpose of the article, summarize the rationale for the study or observation, and include relevant references. Avoid including data or conclusions from the work being reported.

Methods

Describe your selection of the observational or experimental subjects clearly e.g. patients or experimental animals, including controls. Describe the design of your research, the methods, apparatus where appropriate (manufacturer’s name and address in parentheses), and procedures in sufficient detail to allow other workers to reproduce the study. Give references to established methods, including statistical methods; describe new or substantially modified methods, give reasons for using them, and evaluate their limitations. Identify precisely all drugs and chemicals used, including generic name(s), dose(s), and route(s) of administration.
Studies using human subjects must be conducted in accordance with the guidelines outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki of 1975. In all experiments, it should be documented that informed consent was obtained from the subjects. Do not use patients’ names, initials, or hospital numbers. All studies involving the use of animals must be conducted in accordance with the highest standards of humane animal care, and in accordance with the institution’s internal regulations.

Results

Present your results in a logical sequence in the text, tables, and illustrations. Do not repeat in the text all the data in the tables or illustrations. Emphasize or summarize only important observations.

Discussion

The discussion should focus on the interpretation and significance of the findings. State the implications of the findings and their limitations, including possibilities for future research. Relate the observations to other relevant studies.

Acknowledgments

One or more statements should acknowledge (i) contributions that do not justify authorship (ii) technical help (iii) financial (e.g. RCSI Summer Student grant) and material support.

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